Computer programmers write computer software, or code, that tells computers what to do and in what order. Compiler software takes program code and converts it to the 1's and 0's -- the binary terms in which computers "think" -- so the computer can understand and run the program. Computer programmers may work in one of several different areas of programming, some requiring a greater degree of technical skill than others.

Pay and Job Outlook

The job growth outlook for computer programmers is estimated to be about 12 percent between 2010 and 2020, which is about average. The median annual salary for a computer programmer as of 2010 was $71,380, which can vary depending on the specific type of programming involved. Most programming jobs list a bachelor's degree as a minimum education requirement.

Application Programmers

Application programmers write programs for end users. Word processors, spreadsheets and presentation software are all examples of application programs. Programs more specific to a particular business would include customer information, accounting and inventory control. Application programmers typically write programs in high-level languages that are closer to the English language than to the 1's and 0's that a computer understands. Application programmers must be able to think logically and communicate with a variety of technical and business people.

System Programmers

System programmers are more specialized than application programmers in that they write utilities and operating system software. System programmers are sometimes less comfortable talking with end users, but they must be able to communicate well with application programmers and other technical personnel. System programmers write code in low-level programming languages that are closer to the computer's native binary language, and they must be technically savvy.

Game Programmers

Game programmers write computer games that are sold commercially. Like system programmers, game programmers write code in low-level, close-to-the-machine languages so their programs will run faster and more efficiently. Game programmers also write code that drives the graphics of computer games, which requires an even higher degree of technical proficiency.

Web Programmers

Web programmers or developers design and build websites and the applications that live on them. They may build pages in HyperText Markup Language (HTML), a basic Web development language, or write more complex programs and routines in Python, Java, C++ or other scripting languages. The Internet is inherently a nonsecure network due to the variety and number of users and network connections. A number of the underlying data communication protocols that run the Internet are also vulnerable to hacking. Web developers must spend time building security into their programs, so a good understanding of information security is essential for a Web programmer.

About the Author

Alan Hughes has more than 30 years of experience in IT including mainframes, programming, client/server, networks, project management, security, disaster recovery, information systems and hardware. He holds a master's degree in applied computer science and several certifications. He currently teaches information technology at the university level.